Lynn Parramore
10 Luxurious getaways in Dixie
With its rich heritage, tasty cuisine, soul-stirring scenery and unique traditions, Dixie calls for romantic retreats, family getaways, and outdoor frolicking. Steeped in myth and sunshine, the region rambles over a million square miles of terrain, from windswept barrier islands to mist-shrouded mountains. Common notions cultivated in film and literature have alternately presented the South as a rarefied landscape of moonlight-and-magnolias or a country-fried carnival of NASCAR races and Nashville tunes. The truth is: There are many Souths, which you can hear in the varying accents and taste in the smorgasbord of regional foods...
10 Luxurious getaways in Dixie
With its rich heritage, tasty cuisine, soul-stirring scenery and unique traditions, Dixie calls for romantic retreats, family getaways, and outdoor frolicking. Steeped in myth and sunshine, the region rambles over a million square miles of terrain, from windswept barrier islands to mist-shrouded mountains. Common notions cultivated in film and literature have alternately presented the South as a rarefied landscape of moonlight-and-magnolias or a country-fried carnival of NASCAR races and Nashville tunes. The truth is: There are many Souths, which you can hear in the varying accents and taste in the smorgasbord of regional foods...
Lynn Parramore
10 Luxurious getaways in Dixie
With its rich heritage, tasty cuisine, soul-stirring scenery and unique traditions, Dixie calls for roman... more
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1
Monmouth Plantation
Natchez, Miss.
Scarlett would feel right at home at this National Historic Landmark, built in 1818 and later bought by General John A. Quitman, a Mexican War hero. Stay in the main antebellum house, or choose one of the antique-strewn smaller houses on the grounds. Amid the plantation's painstakingly-restored splendor, you can time-travel by dining at a candlelit group table set with period silver and china. On the grounds, stroll the azalea-lined lanes or fish the ponds. In Natchez, walk scenic streets, tour historic churches and homes, and take a cruise on a Mississippi riverboat.
2
Blackberry Farm
Walland, Tenn.
This Appalachian hideaway and working farm ranks among the country's finest rustic retreats. The Farm wins high marks for attentive service, beauteous views, outdoor options and extraordinary food and wine events. Indulge in some of the choicest fly fishing east of the Rockies, ride horses, participate in a slew of horticultural and farm events, take a carriage ride, have a creek stone massage, or sit by a fire for some old-fashioned Southern yarn-spinning. Just chilling on the stone verandah gazing out on serene mountain vistas is balm to the spirit.
3
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Bluffton, S.C.
For a little Lowcountry luxury, book a romantic sojourn at the Inn at Palmetto Bluff. Located on the lovely May River, the Inn takes full advantage of the area's weak-in-the-knees beautiful scenery and intracoastal waterways. Head out for a dolphin-watching excursion or jump in a kayak for paddling heaven. The golf is superb, the service is warm and welcoming, and the ambiance supremely relaxing. Cottages with hardwood pine floors, fireplaces and vaulted ceilings are comfortable and elegant. For day trips, nearby Savannah and Hilton Head Island are easily accessible.
4
Inn on Biltmore Estate
Asheville, N.C.
For top-tier elegance and serious dining in a breathtaking mountain setting, you can't go wrong with the Inn on Biltmore Estate. This stunning limestone manor house looks out over the famous Vanderbilt mansion and winery. Beginning in May, the Biltmore Winery celebrates summer with live music, wine programs, cooking demonstrations and barrel tastings. Guests can also take in atmospheric outdoor concerts featuring international stars on the Biltmore's South Terrace. The inviting city of Asheville is a gallery-packed haven for art-lovers.
5
Keswick Hall
near Charlottesville, Va.
Sir Bernard Ashley, widower of designer Laura Ashley, created this luxury estate at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the fine tradition of aristocratic leisure. Enjoy English afternoon tea, fine cuisine and wine tastings featuring Keswick's own vintage. The 1912 villa's rooms and suites come with fireplaces, claw-foot tubs, and terraces with sweeping views of the golf course or the glorious countryside. Spoil yourself in the spa, take a riding lesson or even join a fox chase. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and the architecturally-stunning University of Virginia are close by.
6
The Sanctuary
Kiawah Island, S.C.
A newcomer on the Southern luxury scene, The Sanctuary has reset the bar and risen to become one of the finest resorts in the world. Fashioned to evoke a 19th-century seaside estate, the hotel caters to guests expecting—and receiving—five-star service. Attractions include pristine beaches, exceptional dining, five championship golf courses, and a superb spa designed after a Charleston courtyard, complete with native stone and trickling fountains. The Sanctuary provides a broad range of outdoor adventures, from twilight paddling excursions to ocean seining, an ancient method of fishing shallow waters. Charming Charleston is just 30 minutes away.
7
The Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs, W. Va.
The Greenbrier, dating back to 1778, has the pedigree to be called, simply, "America's Resort." Industry captains, royals and presidents have all relaxed amid its 6,500 lush acres set in West Virginia's Allegheny Mountains. Guests can golf, kayak, mountain bike, go for an off-road drive, ride horses, walk trails, or just soak up the mineral waters at the legendary Greenbrier Spa. From May to August, pint-sized chefs participate in a children's cooking school, while adults hone their barbecue skills. Delicious summer spa treats include the "Fruit Smoothie Manicure and Pedicure" and the "Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Body Wrap."
8
The Cloister
Sea Island, Ga.
Better than ever after a 2006 renovation, The Cloister is blessed with some of the country's most exquisite coastal scenery. This resort has long been a favorite of Southern high society, and was also the pick for the 2004 G-8 summit. The Cloister oozes old-school refinement, and its low-slung oak trees dripping Spanish moss and graceful Mediterranean-style buildings create a storybook atmosphere. Golfers enjoy a total of 54 holes and a golf school with practice facilities. Beyond golf, there are sunset cruises, diving lessons, beach horseback riding, and a spectacular new spa. Summertime Plantation Suppers feature live music and traditional Southern food.
9
The Lodge
Little St. Simon's Island, Ga.
Accessible only by boat, The Lodge is a private world where you and around 30 other lucky guests have a stunning island all to yourselves. Upon arrival, a butler greets you by name, welcoming you into one of the country's finest small hotels. Most of the sumptuous guest rooms overlook the emerald fairways or the Atlantic Ocean, and all offer low-key rustic refinement. The Lodge, a putter's paradise, was named the number one destination in the 2007 Golf Digest Index. Guests can explore the island's ecological wonders with guided environmental tours or just biking around the untouched beaches and woods.
10
Wentworth Mansion
Charleston, S.C.
The Wentworth Mansion is a Gilded Age stunner with a gorgeous gabled roof once owned by a wealthy cotton merchant. Its prime location, right in the heart of Charleston's historic peninsula, means you can easily stroll to historic sites, fine museums, and dine in some of the South's best restaurants. Wentworth's own acclaimed carriage-house restaurant is wonderfully romantic. Expect meticulously-restored surroundings and an excellent staff eager to pamper you with private tours, wine tastings, afternoon tea and evening cordials. A small spa on the property is housed in an old stable.
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